Jeremiah 35:6
But they said, We will drink no wine: for Jonadab the son of Rechab our father commanded us, saying, Ye shall drink no wine, neither ye, nor your sons for ever:
Jeremiah 35:6 (KJV)
Context
The book of Jeremiah is set during a time of great spiritual decline in Judah. The people had turned away from God and were engaged in idolatry and other sinful practices. God sent the prophet Jeremiah to warn the people of the impending judgment if they did not repent.
In Jeremiah 35, the Rechabites are introduced. They were a nomadic clan descended from Jonadab, the son of Rechab. Jonadab had given a command to his descendants, instructing them not to drink wine or build houses. The Rechabites faithfully followed these commands for many generations.
God instructed Jeremiah to bring the Rechabites into the temple and offer them wine to drink. The purpose of this was to present a contrast between the faithfulness of the Rechabites and the disobedience of the people of Judah.
When the Rechabites were offered wine, they refused to drink it. They explained that their ancestor Jonadab had commanded them not to drink wine, and they had faithfully obeyed this command throughout the generations.
Meaning
The Rechabites’ reply, “We will drink no wine,” is a direct quotation of the command they had received from their forefather Jonadab. The phrase “our father” does not mean their immediate father but their ancestor or progenitor. Jonadab is likely the same man who lived in the times of Jehu and is noted for his zeal for the Lord (see 2 Kings 10). The command was not merely a personal preference but a binding family rule: “Ye shall drink no wine, neither ye, nor your sons for ever.” The word “for ever” indicates a perpetual, multi-generational commitment. Their response shows unwavering obedience: they say “We will drink no wine” as a settled practice, not just a one-time refusal.
Biblical connections
The Rechabites’ obedience is highlighted in the broader context of Jeremiah 35, where God uses them as an object lesson to contrast the disobedience of Judah. The Rechabites had kept the command of their earthly ancestor for generations, while the people of Judah had repeatedly broken the commands of their heavenly Father. This verse sets the stage for the divine commendation that follows in verses 18-19, where God promises that Jonadab’s descendants would never lack a man to stand before Him.
Application
Obedience to God: The example of the Rechabites challenges us to be obedient to God’s commands. It reminds us of the importance of following God’s instructions and remaining faithful to Him in all aspects of our lives.
Influence on Others: We should be mindful of the influence we have on those around us, especially future generations. Our actions and decisions can impact others and shape their behavior and beliefs. Therefore, we should strive to set a positive example of faithfulness and obedience to God.
God’s Judgment and Faithfulness: The story of the Rechabites reminds us that God rewards faithfulness and obedience. It also warns us about the consequences of disobedience and rebellion against God’s commands. We should strive to live in accordance with God’s will, knowing that He is a just God who rewards faithfulness.
Reflection
The Rechabites’ commitment to their ancestral command serves as an example for us to be obedient to God’s commands and to influence others positively. It also reminds us of God’s judgment and the rewards for faithfulness. Their answer is respectful and firm, showing that obedience to a legitimate command can be maintained even under pressure or testing.
